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The Congress Saturday released its third list of 13 candidates, including former PCC president Ponnala Lakshmaiah, for the December 7 Legislative Assembly polls in Telangana.

Lakshmaiah, who also served as a minister in the Congress government in undivided Andhra Pradesh till 2014, had failed to find berth in the previous lists.

Lakshmaiah would contest from his Jangaon assembly segment. It was speculated that the Jangaon seat would go to Telangana Jana Samiti (TJS), a partner in the "grand alliance" for the elections.

The alliance comprises Congress, TDP, CPI and TJS.

As part of the alliance, Congress would contest in 94 assembly segments (out of total 119). With the release of the third list, the party has so far declared candidates for 88 seats.

Meanwhile, TDP has declared Kuna Venkatesh Goud as its nominee from Sanathnagar in Hyderabad. The announcement is bad news for Congress leader Marri Sasidhar Reddy who represented the constituency earlier.

Sasidhar Reddy, son of former Chief Minister Marri Chenna Reddy, is a key Congress leader in Telangana. He was Vice Chairman of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) during UPA regime at the Centre.

The process of filing nominations began Monday with the Election Commission issuing a notification in this regard.

The Congress Saturday released its third list of 13 candidates, including former PCC president Ponnala Lakshmaiah, for the December 7 Legislative Assembly polls in Telangana.

The Congress Saturday released its third list of 13 candidates, including former PCC president Ponnala Lakshmaiah, for the December 7 Legislative Assembly polls in Telangana. Lakshmaiah, who also served as a minister in the Congress government in undivided Andhra Pradesh till 2014, had failed to find berth in the previous lists. Lakshmaiah would contest from his Jangaon assembly segment. It was speculated that the Jangaon seat would go to Telangana Jana Samiti (TJS), a partner in the "grand alliance" for the elections. The alliance comprises Congress, TDP, CPI and TJS. As part of the alliance, Congress would contest in 94 assembly segments (out of total 119). With the release of the third list, the party has so far declared candidates for 88 seats. Meanwhile, TDP has declared Kuna Venkatesh Goud as its nominee from Sanathnagar in Hyderabad. The announcement is bad news for Congress leader Marri Sasidhar Reddy who represented the constituency earlier. Sasidhar Reddy, son of former Chief Minister Marri Chenna Reddy, is a key Congress leader in Telangana. He was Vice Chairman of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) during UPA regime at the Centre. The process of filing nominations began Monday with the Election Commission issuing a notification in this regard.

Congress releases third list for Telangana Assembly polls

Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram Saturday urged Home Minister Rajnath Singh to depute a team of two officers immediately to inspect the extent of damage caused by cyclone Gaja in Tamil Nadu.

The former union home and finance minister also requested Singh to modify the practice of sending inter-ministerial team to a disaster-affected state only after receiving a memorandum from the concerned state government.

"I have requested home&nbsp;minister through Home Secretary to depute a team of two officers immediately to visually inspect the extent of damage caused by cyclone Gaja (sic)," Chidambaram said in a tweet.

He said the usual practice is for the state to submit a memorandum after a disaster hits it and a visit by the inter-ministerial team.

He said this takes at least 2-3 weeks and full impact of the disaster is not measurable because of repair and restoration work.

"I have appealed to MHA (Ministry of Home Affairs) to modify the practice," he said.

At least 13 people have lost their lives and over 81,000 others were affected after cyclone 'Gaja' hit the Tamil Nadu coast Friday.

Six districts of Tamil Nadu and two in Puducherry were hit by the cyclonic storm which also brought heavy rains in the southern state and the Union Territory.

The National Emergency Response Centre has said that total 81,948 people were affected by the cyclone.

Cyclone 'Gaja' crossed Tamil Nadu coast between Nagapattinam and nearby Vedaranyam, bringing with it heavy rains in the coastal region Friday.

Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram Saturday urged Home Minister Rajnath Singh to depute a team of two officers immediately to inspect the extent of damage caused by cyclone Gaja in Tamil Nadu.

Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram Saturday urged Home Minister Rajnath Singh to depute a team of two officers immediately to inspect the extent of damage caused by cyclone Gaja in Tamil Nadu. The former union home and finance minister also requested Singh to modify the practice of sending inter-ministerial team to a disaster-affected state only after receiving a memorandum from the concerned state government. "I have requested home minister through Home Secretary to depute a team of two officers immediately to visually inspect the extent of damage caused by cyclone Gaja (sic)," Chidambaram said in a tweet. He said the usual practice is for the state to submit a memorandum after a disaster hits it and a visit by the inter-ministerial team. He said this takes at least 2-3 weeks and full impact of the disaster is not measurable because of repair and restoration work. "I have appealed to MHA (Ministry of Home Affairs) to modify the practice," he said. At least 13 people have lost their lives and over 81,000 others were affected after cyclone 'Gaja' hit the Tamil Nadu coast Friday. Six districts of Tamil Nadu and two in Puducherry were hit by the cyclonic storm which also brought heavy rains in the southern state and the Union Territory. The National Emergency Response Centre has said that total 81,948 people were affected by the cyclone. Cyclone 'Gaja' crossed Tamil Nadu coast between Nagapattinam and nearby Vedaranyam, bringing with it heavy rains in the coastal region Friday.

Gaja cyclone: Chidambaram asks Rajnath Singh to send team to Tamil Nadu to assess damage

The Election Commission Saturday asked the Chhattisgarh government to transfer one of its senior officials who was allegedly caught on tape offering money for sting operation against opposition Congress leaders in the poll-bound state.

The commission has directed that S Rajesh Toppo, secretary and commissioner of public relations in the state government, be transferred from his present post "in context of alleged statements made by him", a spokesperson said.

"The commission observed that such statements indicate partisan behaviour apart from use of uncivilised language unbecoming of a senior civil servant," the spokesperson said.

Toppo was allegedly caught on tape asking a journalist to film a video of Congress members abusing one of their senior leaders.

The official is purportedly heard saying that he is willing to spend some money for the sting video.&nbsp;

The second phase polling in 72 assembly constituencies in Chhattisgarh will be held on November 20. The first phase polling in 18 seats took place on November 12.&nbsp;

The Election Commission Saturday asked the Chhattisgarh government to transfer one of its senior officials who was allegedly caught on tape offering money for sting operation against opposition Congress leaders in the poll-bound state.

The Election Commission Saturday asked the Chhattisgarh government to transfer one of its senior officials who was allegedly caught on tape offering money for sting operation against opposition Congress leaders in the poll-bound state. The commission has directed that S Rajesh Toppo, secretary and commissioner of public relations in the state government, be transferred from his present post "in context of alleged statements made by him", a spokesperson said. "The commission observed that such statements indicate partisan behaviour apart from use of uncivilised language unbecoming of a senior civil servant," the spokesperson said. Toppo was allegedly caught on tape asking a journalist to film a video of Congress members abusing one of their senior leaders. The official is purportedly heard saying that he is willing to spend some money for the sting video. The second phase polling in 72 assembly constituencies in Chhattisgarh will be held on November 20. The first phase polling in 18 seats took place on November 12.

Election Commission orders removal of Chhattisgarh public relations department chief

The trial of India's first engine-less train, capable of achieving a maximum speed of 160 kilometres per hour, will be conducted today on the Bareilly-Moradabad section.

The fully air-conditioned metro-like train is driven by a self-propulsion module. It can run at a speed of up to 160 kmph and comes with technical features for enhanced quick acceleration.&nbsp;

First unveiled in October, 'Train-18' is conceptualised and designed by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF). It was manufactured by ICF in a record time of 18 months and will run on the route of Delhi-Bhopal Shatabdi for its inaugural ride.&nbsp;

Currently, only Gatiman Express touches the same speed of 160 kilometres per hour.

Fitted with CCTV cameras, Train-18 would have two executive compartments in the middle with 52 seats each, whereas trailer coaches would have 78 seats each. It has diffused lighting, automatic doors and footsteps beside GPS-based Passenger Information System.

The footstep in a coach's doorway slides outward when the train stops at a station enabling passengers to alight safely with comfort in view of the variation in height between a train's floor and the platform.

Shatabdi was introduced in 1988 and is presently running on over 20 routes connecting metros with other important cities.

ICF General Manager Sudhanshu Mani had earlier said the train cost nearly Rs 100 crore to build the prototype and subsequent production would bring down the cost.

He also added that the manufacturing of Train-18 is the best example of the "Make in India" initiative and is a gift of the ICF to Indian Railways.

Six more trains will be manufactured, and maintenance facilities for the train are being developed in New Delhi.

(With inputs from news agencies)

The trial of India's first engine-less train, capable of achieving a maximum speed of 160 kilometres per hour, will be conducted today on the Bareilly-Moradabad section.

The trial of India's first engine-less train, capable of achieving a maximum speed of 160 kilometres per hour, will be conducted today on the Bareilly-Moradabad section. The fully air-conditioned metro-like train is driven by a self-propulsion module. It can run at a speed of up to 160 kmph and comes with technical features for enhanced quick acceleration. First unveiled in October, 'Train-18' is conceptualised and designed by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF). It was manufactured by ICF in a record time of 18 months and will run on the route of Delhi-Bhopal Shatabdi for its inaugural ride. Currently, only Gatiman Express touches the same speed of 160 kilometres per hour. Fitted with CCTV cameras, Train-18 would have two executive compartments in the middle with 52 seats each, whereas trailer coaches would have 78 seats each. It has diffused lighting, automatic doors and footsteps beside GPS-based Passenger Information System. The footstep in a coach's doorway slides outward when the train stops at a station enabling passengers to alight safely with comfort in view of the variation in height between a train's floor and the platform. Shatabdi was introduced in 1988 and is presently running on over 20 routes connecting metros with other important cities. ICF General Manager Sudhanshu Mani had earlier said the train cost nearly Rs 100 crore to build the prototype and subsequent production would bring down the cost. He also added that the manufacturing of Train-18 is the best example of the "Make in India" initiative and is a gift of the ICF to Indian Railways. Six more trains will be manufactured, and maintenance facilities for the train are being developed in New Delhi. (With inputs from news agencies)

India's first engine-less, 'Train 18' to go on trial today

Former Union minister P Chidambaram Saturday hit back at Prime Minister <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-dares-congress-to-make-a-non-gandhi-party-president-for-at-least-5-years-177780">Narendra Modi for targeting the Congress</a>, reminding him of the party's legacy by listing out the names of its presidents from outside the Nehru-Gandhi family.

He asked the prime minister to now speak on the Rafale aircraft deal, unemployment and suicide of farmers during his rule.

In an election rally in Chhattisgarh on Friday, Modi had asked the Congress to make a Congressman, from outside the Nehru-Gandhi family, president of the party for five years.

In a series of tweets, Chidambaram listed out the names and said the Congress was proud of the humble origins of its post-Independence leaders like Babasaheb Ambedkar, Lal Bahadur Shastri, K Kamaraj and Manmohan Singh and many others besides thousand&nbsp;others during pre-Independence days.

"To jog PM Modi's memory: among the Congress Presidents since 1947 were Acharya Kripalani, Pattabhi Sitaramayya, Purushottamdas Tandon, U N Dhebar, Sanjiva Reddy, Sanjivaiah, Kamaraj, Nijalingappa, C Subramanian, Jagjivan Ram, Shankar Dayal Sharma, D K Barooah, Brahmananda Reddy, P V Narasimha Rao and Sitaram Kesri (sic)," he said.

In a dig at Modi, Chidambaram said he was grateful that the prime minister was "concerned" about who is elected as Congress president and he devotes a lot of time talking about it.

"Will he spend half the time and speak about demonetisation, GST, Rafale, CBI and the RBI?

"Will PM Modi speak about farmers' suicides, massive unemployment, lynchings, rape crimes against women and children, anti-Romeo squads, gau rakshak vigilantism and increasing terror attacks?" he said.

At the rally in Ambikapur in north Chhattisgarh, Modi had also attacked Congress president Rahul Gandhi and asked him to give an account on the contributions of the four generations of the Nehru-Gandhi family to the nation.

Former Union minister P Chidambaram Saturday hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for targeting the Congress, reminding him of the party's legacy by listing out the names of its presidents from outside the Nehru-Gandhi family.

Former Union minister P Chidambaram Saturday hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi for targeting the Congress, reminding him of the party's legacy by listing out the names of its presidents from outside the Nehru-Gandhi family. He asked the prime minister to now speak on the Rafale aircraft deal, unemployment and suicide of farmers during his rule. In an election rally in Chhattisgarh on Friday, Modi had asked the Congress to make a Congressman, from outside the Nehru-Gandhi family, president of the party for five years. In a series of tweets, Chidambaram listed out the names and said the Congress was proud of the humble origins of its post-Independence leaders like Babasaheb Ambedkar, Lal Bahadur Shastri, K Kamaraj and Manmohan Singh and many others besides thousand others during pre-Independence days. "To jog PM Modi's memory: among the Congress Presidents since 1947 were Acharya Kripalani, Pattabhi Sitaramayya, Purushottamdas Tandon, U N Dhebar, Sanjiva Reddy, Sanjivaiah, Kamaraj, Nijalingappa, C Subramanian, Jagjivan Ram, Shankar Dayal Sharma, D K Barooah, Brahmananda Reddy, P V Narasimha Rao and Sitaram Kesri (sic)," he said. In a dig at Modi, Chidambaram said he was grateful that the prime minister was "concerned" about who is elected as Congress president and he devotes a lot of time talking about it. "Will he spend half the time and speak about demonetisation, GST, Rafale, CBI and the RBI? "Will PM Modi speak about farmers' suicides, massive unemployment, lynchings, rape crimes against women and children, anti-Romeo squads, gau rakshak vigilantism and increasing terror attacks?" he said. At the rally in Ambikapur in north Chhattisgarh, Modi had also attacked Congress president Rahul Gandhi and asked him to give an account on the contributions of the four generations of the Nehru-Gandhi family to the nation.

Chidambaram responds to PM Modi, lists out Presidents outside Nehru-Gandhi family

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Saturday defended demonetisation, saying it was a "highly ethical" move and not a political one.

His statement comes a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Rahul Gandhi engaged in a war of words during the respective election rallies over the decision suddenly announced in November 2016 to junk a bulk of the currency in circulation.

"It was a highly ethical move," Jaitley told reporters here in response to a query over demonetisation. "It was not a political move."

Jaitley was speaking after releasing the BJP's manifesto here ahead of the November 28 Madhya Pradesh Assembly election.

The minister said demonetisation has increased the tax return filings and also increased the revenue of the states and the Centre immensely.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Friday criticised the government over demonetisation, saying it was the "biggest scam" of India.

Addressing a rally in Ambikapur in Chhattisgarh ahead of the second phase of voting on November 20, Modi claimed people did not have issues with demonetisation, but "only a family".

The prime minister claimed the Congress was "worried" that he took away all the money its "minions and friends" had stashed under their beds and in sacks in one stroke.

Modi had said his government was investing the money recovered post-demonetisation on carrying out public works and funding welfare schemes.&nbsp;

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Saturday defended demonetisation, saying it was a "highly ethical" move and not a political one. His statement comes a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Rahul Gandhi engaged in a war of words during the respective election rallies over the decision suddenly announced in November 2016 to junk a bulk of the currency in circulation.

Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Saturday defended demonetisation, saying it was a "highly ethical" move and not a political one. His statement comes a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Rahul Gandhi engaged in a war of words during the respective election rallies over the decision suddenly announced in November 2016 to junk a bulk of the currency in circulation. "It was a highly ethical move," Jaitley told reporters here in response to a query over demonetisation. "It was not a political move." Jaitley was speaking after releasing the BJP's manifesto here ahead of the November 28 Madhya Pradesh Assembly election. The minister said demonetisation has increased the tax return filings and also increased the revenue of the states and the Centre immensely. Congress president Rahul Gandhi on Friday criticised the government over demonetisation, saying it was the "biggest scam" of India. Addressing a rally in Ambikapur in Chhattisgarh ahead of the second phase of voting on November 20, Modi claimed people did not have issues with demonetisation, but "only a family". The prime minister claimed the Congress was "worried" that he took away all the money its "minions and friends" had stashed under their beds and in sacks in one stroke. Modi had said his government was investing the money recovered post-demonetisation on carrying out public works and funding welfare schemes.

Demonetisation highly ethical move, not political: Arun Jaitley

BJP president Amit Shah alleged Friday that Congress governments ignored Bundelkhand, an impoverished region which is spread over Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.

Shah addressed campaign rallies at Tikamgarh, Damoh and Sagar in Bundelkhand ahead of the November 28 Assembly polls in Madhya Pradesh.

Speaking in Tikamgarh, Shah said, "There was a time when funds received for the development of Bundelkhand disappeared. Neither roads were constructed, nor were the schemes for hospitals and water supply implemented."

Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan utilised the funds well to convert Bundelkhand into a developed region, he claimed.

In Uttar Pradesh, chief minister Yogi Adityanath has also kicked off development of Bundelkhand since the BJP came to power in that state, he said.

At the behest of Union minister Uma Bharti, Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved Ken-Betwa river-linking project for Bundelkhand, he said.

Crediting Bharti for ousting the Congress from power in MP in 2003, Shah noted that she hails from Bundelkhand.

Addressing another rally at Damoh, Shah said Congress president Rahul Gandhi will soon need to use binoculars to look for his party which is fast vanishing from the country.

At a public meeting at Sagar in the region, he said, in apparent jibe at the roots of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, that Congress leaders wear "Italian spectacles" when talking about the surgical strikes conducted by the Army in 2016.

The GDP of Madhya Pradesh was "minus four per cent" when Digvijay Singh was chief minister, while under the BJP it has risen to ten per cent, he said.

BJP president Amit Shah alleged Friday that Congress governments ignored Bundelkhand, an impoverished region which is spread over Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.

BJP president Amit Shah alleged Friday that Congress governments ignored Bundelkhand, an impoverished region which is spread over Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. Shah addressed campaign rallies at Tikamgarh, Damoh and Sagar in Bundelkhand ahead of the November 28 Assembly polls in Madhya Pradesh. Speaking in Tikamgarh, Shah said, "There was a time when funds received for the development of Bundelkhand disappeared. Neither roads were constructed, nor were the schemes for hospitals and water supply implemented." Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan utilised the funds well to convert Bundelkhand into a developed region, he claimed. In Uttar Pradesh, chief minister Yogi Adityanath has also kicked off development of Bundelkhand since the BJP came to power in that state, he said. At the behest of Union minister Uma Bharti, Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved Ken-Betwa river-linking project for Bundelkhand, he said. Crediting Bharti for ousting the Congress from power in MP in 2003, Shah noted that she hails from Bundelkhand. Addressing another rally at Damoh, Shah said Congress president Rahul Gandhi will soon need to use binoculars to look for his party which is fast vanishing from the country. At a public meeting at Sagar in the region, he said, in apparent jibe at the roots of UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, that Congress leaders wear "Italian spectacles" when talking about the surgical strikes conducted by the Army in 2016. The GDP of Madhya Pradesh was "minus four per cent" when Digvijay Singh was chief minister, while under the BJP it has risen to ten per cent, he said.

Congress ignored Bundelkhand, CM Chouhan developed it: Amit Shah in Madhya Pradesh

Rightwing Hindu outfits have called for a dawn to dusk&nbsp;in Kerala Saturday in protest against the arrest of a senior Sangh Parivar leader who was on the pilgrimage to Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa temple.

VHP state president S J R Kumar alleged that Hindu Aikyavedi state President K P Sasikala was arrested by police near Marakkoottam near Sabarimala at 2.30 am Saturday.

"She was arrested as she was on the way to the hill shrine carrying irumudikkettu (bundle carrying sacred offerings) to offer prayers. Some other activists have been taken into preventive custody," Kumar told PTI.

He accused the Kerala government of trying to destroy the Sabarimala temple.

The VHP leader said essential services and vehicles of Ayyappa devotees will not be affected by the strike.

Unprecedented security arrangements have been made at the shrine, which opened for the third time Friday for the two-month-long pilgrimage season commencing Saturday after the Supreme Court allowed women of menstrual age to offer prayers.

The temple opened Friday amid a tense standoff involving <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-visit-sabarimala-next-unannounced-using-guerilla-tactics-trupti-desai-177797">social activist Trupti Desai in Kochi </a>and a move by its administrator to seek time from the Supreme Court to implement its verdict.

The 41-day mandalam festival will conclude on December 27 after Mandala pooja, when the shrine will close after the 'Athazhapuja' in the evening. It would reopen for the Makaravilakku festival on December 30.

The Makaravilakku festival would be celebrated on January 14 after which the shrine will close on January 20, marking the culmination of the pilgrim season, when laksh of devotees are expected to throng the shrine.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

The temple complex and nearby areas had witnessed widespread protests after the state government decided to implement the September 28 apex court verdict.

The Supreme Court is slated to hear petitions seeking review of its September 28 order in January, but has refused to stay it.

Rightwing Hindu outfits have called for a dawn to dusk in Kerala Saturday in protest against the arrest of a senior Sangh Parivar leader who was on the pilgrimage to Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa temple.

Rightwing Hindu outfits have called for a dawn to dusk in Kerala Saturday in protest against the arrest of a senior Sangh Parivar leader who was on the pilgrimage to Sabarimala Lord Ayyappa temple. VHP state president S J R Kumar alleged that Hindu Aikyavedi state President K P Sasikala was arrested by police near Marakkoottam near Sabarimala at 2.30 am Saturday. "She was arrested as she was on the way to the hill shrine carrying irumudikkettu (bundle carrying sacred offerings) to offer prayers. Some other activists have been taken into preventive custody," Kumar told PTI. He accused the Kerala government of trying to destroy the Sabarimala temple. The VHP leader said essential services and vehicles of Ayyappa devotees will not be affected by the strike. Unprecedented security arrangements have been made at the shrine, which opened for the third time Friday for the two-month-long pilgrimage season commencing Saturday after the Supreme Court allowed women of menstrual age to offer prayers. The temple opened Friday amid a tense standoff involving social activist Trupti Desai in Kochi and a move by its administrator to seek time from the Supreme Court to implement its verdict. The 41-day mandalam festival will conclude on December 27 after Mandala pooja, when the shrine will close after the 'Athazhapuja' in the evening. It would reopen for the Makaravilakku festival on December 30. The Makaravilakku festival would be celebrated on January 14 after which the shrine will close on January 20, marking the culmination of the pilgrim season, when laksh of devotees are expected to throng the shrine. The temple complex and nearby areas had witnessed widespread protests after the state government decided to implement the September 28 apex court verdict. The Supreme Court is slated to hear petitions seeking review of its September 28 order in January, but has refused to stay it.

Kerala braces for dawn-to-dusk strike as Sabarimala opens for pilgrims

Providing 10 lakh jobs per year to youths in Madhya Pradesh and welfare of all sections of society are among the major promises made by the Bharatiya Janata Party in its manifesto for the November 28 assembly elections, which was released here Saturday.

The BJP, which has been ruling the state since 2003, is trying to retain power amid the opposition Congress's allegations of a collapse of governance and its failure to work for agriculturists.

Madhya Pradesh last year witnessed wide-scale protests by farmers for better Minimum Support Price for their produce and other demands, forcing the government to announce a slew of measures.

The manifesto, called as "Drishti Patra" or vision document, was released by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley at the state BJP headquarters here.

"We will provide 10 lakh jobs and self employment opportunities per year for the youth of the state," Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan told reporters.

Chouhan, accompanied by Union ministers Dharmendra Pradhan and Narendra Singh Tomar, promised to make a provision for free education for the poor.

"We have prepared a roadmap for the development of the state as well as the welfare of each section of the society," he said.

The BJP has promised measures to ensure welfare of farmers, women, backward classes and traders, besides the youth, in the state.

Elections for the 230-member assembly are scheduled to be held on November 28. The results will be declared on December 11. The opposition Congress had released its manifesto 'Vachan Patra' last Saturday.

The Congress promised an 'adhyatmik vibhag' (spiritual department) in the state, as well as plans to promote the Sanskrit language.

The Congress manifesto speaks of developing the 'Ram path', a mythical route taken by Lord Ram during his 14-year exile, and the commercial production of 'gaumutra' (cow urine) and 'kanda' (cowdung cakes).

Providing 10 lakh jobs per year to youths in Madhya Pradesh and welfare of all sections of society are among the major promises made by the Bharatiya Janata Party in its manifesto for the November 28 assembly elections, which was released here Saturday.

Providing 10 lakh jobs per year to youths in Madhya Pradesh and welfare of all sections of society are among the major promises made by the Bharatiya Janata Party in its manifesto for the November 28 assembly elections, which was released here Saturday. The BJP, which has been ruling the state since 2003, is trying to retain power amid the opposition Congress's allegations of a collapse of governance and its failure to work for agriculturists. Madhya Pradesh last year witnessed wide-scale protests by farmers for better Minimum Support Price for their produce and other demands, forcing the government to announce a slew of measures. The manifesto, called as "Drishti Patra" or vision document, was released by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley at the state BJP headquarters here. "We will provide 10 lakh jobs and self employment opportunities per year for the youth of the state," Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan told reporters. Chouhan, accompanied by Union ministers Dharmendra Pradhan and Narendra Singh Tomar, promised to make a provision for free education for the poor. "We have prepared a roadmap for the development of the state as well as the welfare of each section of the society," he said. The BJP has promised measures to ensure welfare of farmers, women, backward classes and traders, besides the youth, in the state. Elections for the 230-member assembly are scheduled to be held on November 28. The results will be declared on December 11. The opposition Congress had released its manifesto 'Vachan Patra' last Saturday. The Congress promised an 'adhyatmik vibhag' (spiritual department) in the state, as well as plans to promote the Sanskrit language. The Congress manifesto speaks of developing the 'Ram path', a mythical route taken by Lord Ram during his 14-year exile, and the commercial production of 'gaumutra' (cow urine) and 'kanda' (cowdung cakes).

Madhya Pradesh polls: BJP releases manifesto, promises 10 lakh jobs annually

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has released the fourth list of candidates for the upcoming Assembly Elections in Telangana.

The decision was announced by Union Health Minister and Secretary of BJP`s Central Election Commission, Jagat Prakash Nadda.

With the announcement of the fourth list, the party has, so far, announced the names of 93 candidates out of 119 seats in poll-bound Telangana.

On October 20, the BJP had announced its first list for Telangana polls and released the names of candidates for 38 constituencies.

The second list comprising 28 candidates was released on November 3, while the third list containing names of 20 candidates was released on November 15.

The Telangana Legislative Assembly Elections are scheduled to be held on December 7 to elect members from 119 constituencies. The counting of votes will take place on December 11.&nbsp;

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has released the fourth list of candidates for the upcoming Assembly Elections in Telangana. The decision was announced by Union Health Minister and Secretary of BJP`s Central Election Commission, Jagat Prakash Nadda.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has released the fourth list of candidates for the upcoming Assembly Elections in Telangana. The decision was announced by Union Health Minister and Secretary of BJP`s Central Election Commission, Jagat Prakash Nadda. With the announcement of the fourth list, the party has, so far, announced the names of 93 candidates out of 119 seats in poll-bound Telangana. On October 20, the BJP had announced its first list for Telangana polls and released the names of candidates for 38 constituencies. The second list comprising 28 candidates was released on November 3, while the third list containing names of 20 candidates was released on November 15. The Telangana Legislative Assembly Elections are scheduled to be held on December 7 to elect members from 119 constituencies. The counting of votes will take place on December 11.

BJP releases fourth list of candidates for Telangana polls

Despite calls for boycott and terror threats, the people of Jammu and Kashmir have come out to exercise their electoral franchise in support of development in the ongoing first phase of the Panchayat elections on Saturday.

People standing in serpentine queues outside the polling booths, especially in Balhama, Uri, Udhampur, Ganderbal, Manjakote and Panjgrain blocks, said that braving all obstacles are worth for the 'vote for development'.

Speaking to ANI, Pervaiz Iqbal, a voter from Manjakote Block said that the people are casting their votes in order to strengthen democracy and bring peace in the region.

"People living near the border areas want peace and development in the region. From the past couple of years, we are reeling under violence due to Pakistan's firing across the LoC. This time people want Sarpanches to exercise all their rights and work for the welfare of the people."

Another voter named Azir Mohamad was of the view that Panchayat polls are imperative for strengthening the structure of democracy in the state.

He also asserted that Sarpanches will be able to solve issues at the grass-root level. "We want that this time new Sarpanch must listen to our problems and deliver their promises on time," he said.

Azir also accused the former Sarpanches of being corrupt and added that the villagers from the past couple of years were not given any money allocated under various government-sponsored schemes.

Joining Azir's contention, another voter Mohamad Salim said, "We want the Sarpanch to resolve our problems and approach Centre as our representative when required. A lot of chaos is prevailing in the region due to cross-border firing. We now want development and peace."

Today, polling is being held in seven districts of Jammu, six districts of Kashmir Valley and two in Ladakh region.

As many as 427 candidates are in the fray, contesting for 536 Sarpanch Halqas and 5,951 candidates for 4,048 Panch wards in this phase of the Panchayat elections.

The polls will be held in nine phases and the model code of conduct will remain in force till the election process is completed.

The voting for the succeeding phases will take place on November 20, 24, 27, 29, December 1, 4, 8 and 11. Counting will take place on the days of polling.

Despite calls for boycott and terror threats, the people of Jammu and Kashmir have come out to exercise their electoral franchise in support of development in the ongoing first phase of the Panchayat elections on Saturday.

Despite calls for boycott and terror threats, the people of Jammu and Kashmir have come out to exercise their electoral franchise in support of development in the ongoing first phase of the Panchayat elections on Saturday. People standing in serpentine queues outside the polling booths, especially in Balhama, Uri, Udhampur, Ganderbal, Manjakote and Panjgrain blocks, said that braving all obstacles are worth for the 'vote for development'. Speaking to ANI, Pervaiz Iqbal, a voter from Manjakote Block said that the people are casting their votes in order to strengthen democracy and bring peace in the region. "People living near the border areas want peace and development in the region. From the past couple of years, we are reeling under violence due to Pakistan's firing across the LoC. This time people want Sarpanches to exercise all their rights and work for the welfare of the people." Another voter named Azir Mohamad was of the view that Panchayat polls are imperative for strengthening the structure of democracy in the state. He also asserted that Sarpanches will be able to solve issues at the grass-root level. "We want that this time new Sarpanch must listen to our problems and deliver their promises on time," he said. Azir also accused the former Sarpanches of being corrupt and added that the villagers from the past couple of years were not given any money allocated under various government-sponsored schemes. Joining Azir's contention, another voter Mohamad Salim said, "We want the Sarpanch to resolve our problems and approach Centre as our representative when required. A lot of chaos is prevailing in the region due to cross-border firing. We now want development and peace." Today, polling is being held in seven districts of Jammu, six districts of Kashmir Valley and two in Ladakh region. As many as 427 candidates are in the fray, contesting for 536 Sarpanch Halqas and 5,951 candidates for 4,048 Panch wards in this phase of the Panchayat elections. The polls will be held in nine phases and the model code of conduct will remain in force till the election process is completed. The voting for the succeeding phases will take place on November 20, 24, 27, 29, December 1, 4, 8 and 11. Counting will take place on the days of polling.

Jammu and Kashmir panchayat polls: People vote for peace and development

The Travancore Devaswom Board, which manages the Sabarimala shrine, would move the Supreme Court on Monday seeking more time to implement its order allowing women of menstrual age to offer prayers at the Lord Ayyappa temple.

The TDB's move comes a day after the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government, at an all-party meeting, took a firm stand that it was bound to implement the top court order and rejected suggestions by opposition parties that it seek time from the court.

"We will move the Supreme court on Monday through Advocate Chandra Uday Singh" TDB President A Padmakumar, told PTI.

The board had Friday said it would move the apex court either Saturday or Monday seeking more time to implement the September 28 verdict of the top court allowing women of all age groups to offer prayers at the Sabarimala shrine as it wanted the devotees to have peaceful 'darshan'.

The temple and surrounding areas have come under unprecedented security for the season which draws lakhs of devotees to offer prayers to Lord Ayyappa. 
The Supreme Court is slated to hear petitions seeking review of its September 28 order in January, but has refused to stay it.&nbsp;

The Travancore Devaswom Board, which manages the Sabarimala shrine, would move the Supreme Court on Monday seeking more time to implement its order allowing women of menstrual age to offer prayers at the Lord Ayyappa temple.

The Travancore Devaswom Board, which manages the Sabarimala shrine, would move the Supreme Court on Monday seeking more time to implement its order allowing women of menstrual age to offer prayers at the Lord Ayyappa temple. The TDB's move comes a day after the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government, at an all-party meeting, took a firm stand that it was bound to implement the top court order and rejected suggestions by opposition parties that it seek time from the court. "We will move the Supreme court on Monday through Advocate Chandra Uday Singh" TDB President A Padmakumar, told PTI. The board had Friday said it would move the apex court either Saturday or Monday seeking more time to implement the September 28 verdict of the top court allowing women of all age groups to offer prayers at the Sabarimala shrine as it wanted the devotees to have peaceful 'darshan'. The temple and surrounding areas have come under unprecedented security for the season which draws lakhs of devotees to offer prayers to Lord Ayyappa. The Supreme Court is slated to hear petitions seeking review of its September 28 order in January, but has refused to stay it.

Sabarimala row: Travancore Devaswom Board to move Supreme Court on Monday

Supreme Court today commenced <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-chief-verma-meets-central-vigilance-commissioner-denies-corruption-charges-against-him-176281">hearing on Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) director Alok Verma's </a>plea challenging the government's order relieving him of his duties.&nbsp;

The court refused to give the inquiry report to CBI special director Rakesh Asthana who had requested the document be given to him.

The Supreme Court said the Central Vigilance Commission(CVC) report is "very uncomplimentary" on some charges against Alok Verma and on some of it says further probe is needed.

The top court proposed to provide Alok Verma with preliminary CVC probe report in a sealed cover. He was asked to file his reply in a sealed cover by the court.&nbsp;

India's highest court said the CVC report on Alok Verma will also&nbsp;be given to Attorney General&nbsp;K K Venugopal and Solicitor General Tushar Mehta.&nbsp;

The Supreme court declared that the confidentiality of CVC report needed to be protected to restore public confidence in the CBI and sanctity of the investigating agency.

Supreme Court has fixed the matter for further hearing on November 20th.

Supreme Court today commenced hearing on Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) director Alok Verma's plea challenging the government's order relieving him of his duties.

Supreme Court today commenced hearing on Central Bureau of Investigation(CBI) director Alok Verma's plea challenging the government's order relieving him of his duties. The court refused to give the inquiry report to CBI special director Rakesh Asthana who had requested the document be given to him. The Supreme Court said the Central Vigilance Commission(CVC) report is "very uncomplimentary" on some charges against Alok Verma and on some of it says further probe is needed. The top court proposed to provide Alok Verma with preliminary CVC probe report in a sealed cover. He was asked to file his reply in a sealed cover by the court. India's highest court said the CVC report on Alok Verma will also be given to Attorney General K K Venugopal and Solicitor General Tushar Mehta. The Supreme court declared that the confidentiality of CVC report needed to be protected to restore public confidence in the CBI and sanctity of the investigating agency. Supreme Court has fixed the matter for further hearing on November 20th.

CBI crisis: Supreme Court to give preliminary CVC report to Alok Verma in sealed cover

Rain lashed coastal regions of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry as the severe<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/severe-cyclonic-storm-gaja-makes-landfall-in-tamil-nadu-over-75000-people-evacuated-177607"> cyclonic storm 'Gaja'</a> crossed the state's coast between Nagapattinam and nearby Vedaranniyam early Friday with wind speed gusting up to 120 kmph.

As the cyclone's landfall began, coastal towns including Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Thondi and Pamban in Tamil Nadu and Karaikkal and Puducherry received rainfall ranging between 3 cm and 8 cm.

According to a report by ANI, two people have been killed and one person is injured in Tamil Nadu's Cuddalore district.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GajaCyclone?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GajaCyclone</a>: Two dead and one injured in Tamil Nadu's Cuddalore district. MC Sampath, State Minister, says, "People who have lost their lives in the cyclone will be given ex-gratia by the state govt." <a href="https://t.co/UaXV7d9Sxq">pic.twitter.com/UaXV7d9Sxq</a>
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According to Tamil Nadu State Disaster Management Authority, as many as 81,948 people were evacuated from low lying areas and sheltered in 471 relief centres in six districts Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Pudukottai, Thanjavur, Ramanathapuram and Tiruvarur.

A holiday has been declared for educational institutions in Nagapattinam district.

An India Meteorological Department (IMD) bulletin said, "severe cyclonic storm 'Gaja' crossed Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coast between Nagapattinam and Vedaranniyam ...with wind speed of 100-110 kmph gusting up to 120 kmph, early Friday. Though the center of cyclone entered land early Friday, it took about two hours more for the rear sector of eyewall to enter the land region."

"Entire eyewall region lies over land. Maximum wind speed was reported at Athiramapattinam 117 kmph followed by Nagapattinam 100 kmph and Karaikkal 83 kmph," the latest bulletin said.

The severe cyclonic storm is very likely to move nearly westwards and weaken gradually into a cyclonic storm on Friday.

Due to heavy wind during the cyclone's landfall, trees, high mast lamps and some power poles in locations including Vedaranyam, Mannargudi, Irulneeki at Tiruvarur District got uprooted.

Uprooted trees have fallen on the roads which are being removed by civic workers.

Electricity supply was disconnected here and in several other coastal regions in view of the cyclone's landfall, officials said.

Revenue Minister R B Udaya Kumar told reporters that the government has tackled the cyclone situation successfully.&nbsp;

"This was a challenging task...We are confident that we have faced it safely 100 per cent" he said, adding all post-cyclone tasks like cleaning up storm-affected areas has begun."

"The government has got inputs of damage to houses and other properties and the extent of damage will be evaluated,"&nbsp;he said.

Four teams each of National Disaster Response Force personnel have been already deployed in Nagapattinam district while two teams of the state disaster response force in Cuddalore district, officials had said Thursday.

The state disaster management authority had released an animated video aimed at creating awareness on the do's and don'ts during the cyclone.

The government had also announced helpline numbers 1070 (state-level) and 1077 (districts) for those who may need assistance.

Rain lashed coastal regions of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry as the severe cyclonic storm 'Gaja' crossed the state's coast between Nagapattinam and nearby Vedaranniyam early Friday with wind speed gusting up to 120 kmph.

Rain lashed coastal regions of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry as the severe cyclonic storm 'Gaja' crossed the state's coast between Nagapattinam and nearby Vedaranniyam early Friday with wind speed gusting up to 120 kmph. As the cyclone's landfall began, coastal towns including Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Thondi and Pamban in Tamil Nadu and Karaikkal and Puducherry received rainfall ranging between 3 cm and 8 cm. According to a report by ANI, two people have been killed and one person is injured in Tamil Nadu's Cuddalore district. #GajaCyclone: Two dead and one injured in Tamil Nadu's Cuddalore district. MC Sampath, State Minister, says, "People who have lost their lives in the cyclone will be given ex-gratia by the state govt." pic.twitter.com/UaXV7d9Sxq — ANI (@ANI) November 16, 2018 × According to Tamil Nadu State Disaster Management Authority, as many as 81,948 people were evacuated from low lying areas and sheltered in 471 relief centres in six districts Cuddalore, Nagapattinam, Pudukottai, Thanjavur, Ramanathapuram and Tiruvarur. A holiday has been declared for educational institutions in Nagapattinam district. An India Meteorological Department (IMD) bulletin said, "severe cyclonic storm 'Gaja' crossed Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coast between Nagapattinam and Vedaranniyam ...with wind speed of 100-110 kmph gusting up to 120 kmph, early Friday. Though the center of cyclone entered land early Friday, it took about two hours more for the rear sector of eyewall to enter the land region." "Entire eyewall region lies over land. Maximum wind speed was reported at Athiramapattinam 117 kmph followed by Nagapattinam 100 kmph and Karaikkal 83 kmph," the latest bulletin said. The severe cyclonic storm is very likely to move nearly westwards and weaken gradually into a cyclonic storm on Friday. Due to heavy wind during the cyclone's landfall, trees, high mast lamps and some power poles in locations including Vedaranyam, Mannargudi, Irulneeki at Tiruvarur District got uprooted. Uprooted trees have fallen on the roads which are being removed by civic workers. Electricity supply was disconnected here and in several other coastal regions in view of the cyclone's landfall, officials said. Revenue Minister R B Udaya Kumar told reporters that the government has tackled the cyclone situation successfully. "This was a challenging task...We are confident that we have faced it safely 100 per cent" he said, adding all post-cyclone tasks like cleaning up storm-affected areas has begun." "The government has got inputs of damage to houses and other properties and the extent of damage will be evaluated," he said. Four teams each of National Disaster Response Force personnel have been already deployed in Nagapattinam district while two teams of the state disaster response force in Cuddalore district, officials had said Thursday. The state disaster management authority had released an animated video aimed at creating awareness on the do's and don'ts during the cyclone. The government had also announced helpline numbers 1070 (state-level) and 1077 (districts) for those who may need assistance.

Video: 2 dead, 1 injured as cyclone Gaja hits Tamil Nadu, Puducherry coastal areas; over 80,000 evacuated

India's weather officials issue warning to locals ahead of cyclone Gaja

Activist Trupti Desai, heading to Sabarimala, face protests at the Kochi airport

Following light rainfall in parts of the national capital, air quality of the region has witnessed a significant improvement. The Air Quality Index (AQI) for Delhi jumped from to 'poor' category on Friday from 'very poor' on Thursday.

According to Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the overall air quality of Delhi docked at 235 in the morning. The weather in the region will be mostly sunny with daytime temperature reaching 26-degree celsius. Night time temperature is expected to be 14-degree Celsius. Humidity will be around 73 per cent with a wind speed of 10 kilometres per hour, while visibility will be around 1.2 kilometres throughout the day.

Notably, an AQI between the range of 0-50 is considered good, the range between 51 to 100 is marked as satisfactory and 101-200 is moderate, 201-300 comes under the category of poor and 401 -500 severe and beyond 500 is contemplated as hazardous.

At Dhirpur, the AQI was 143 at 8:45 am, while in Mathura Road area it improved to 'Moderate' category at 136. Furthermore, AQI near Pitampura, Airport Terminal 3 and Delhi University stood at 143, 159 and 143 respectively.

The air quality of the capital has improved significantly after the drop in crop residue burning on Thursday. According to SAFAR, the stubble burning fire accounted for only 3 per cent of the pollution, the lowest for this month.

"Air quality improved significantly due to sufficient rainfall earlier night due to washing away effect. Surface wind speed moderately increased but pollution level declined faster than expected as still weather conditions are not completely favourable except sporadic rain. This implies that air is lighter and free path increased to allow faster dispersion. in addition to cleaning by rain, it also tend to suggest that accumulative emission loading is relatively less. Stubble fire is almost negligible. The AQI is likley to remain in poor range tomorrow but slip back to 'very poor 'range thereafter," SAFAR added.

Speaking to ANI, Nitin Kaushik, a fitness enthusiast, said, "The pollution level in Delhi has significantly come down due to the rain. I am happy that now I will be able to walk and cycle in the morning. Earlier, the situation was worse, I was not able to see the nearby building clearly due to smog. More people are now coming out for morning walks and exercise".

However, residents suffering from respiratory diseases have been adviced by SAFAR to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion. They have also been asked to take more breaks and do less intense activities. Asthmatics must keep medicine ready if symptoms of coughing or shortness of breath occur. Heart patients must consult a doctor, in case of palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue.

In an attempt to bring the air quality to a satisfactory level, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Thursday issued an order to all the states to adopt a multi-method approach through in situ and ex-situ management of crop burning residue. It also directed the Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre to "disburse funds well in time" so that "states can utilise it properly".

As per the directives issued by the NGT, the Chief Secretaries of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh held a two-hour long meeting with members of the green panel. Representatives from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, the Central Pollution Control Board and the Union Secretary Agriculture were also present at the meeting.

Following light rainfall in parts of the national capital, air quality of the region has witnessed a significant improvement. The Air Quality Index (AQI) for Delhi jumped from to 'poor' category on Friday from 'very poor' on Thursday.

Following light rainfall in parts of the national capital, air quality of the region has witnessed a significant improvement. The Air Quality Index (AQI) for Delhi jumped from to 'poor' category on Friday from 'very poor' on Thursday. According to Centre-run System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR), the overall air quality of Delhi docked at 235 in the morning. The weather in the region will be mostly sunny with daytime temperature reaching 26-degree celsius. Night time temperature is expected to be 14-degree Celsius. Humidity will be around 73 per cent with a wind speed of 10 kilometres per hour, while visibility will be around 1.2 kilometres throughout the day. Notably, an AQI between the range of 0-50 is considered good, the range between 51 to 100 is marked as satisfactory and 101-200 is moderate, 201-300 comes under the category of poor and 401 -500 severe and beyond 500 is contemplated as hazardous. At Dhirpur, the AQI was 143 at 8:45 am, while in Mathura Road area it improved to 'Moderate' category at 136. Furthermore, AQI near Pitampura, Airport Terminal 3 and Delhi University stood at 143, 159 and 143 respectively. The air quality of the capital has improved significantly after the drop in crop residue burning on Thursday. According to SAFAR, the stubble burning fire accounted for only 3 per cent of the pollution, the lowest for this month. "Air quality improved significantly due to sufficient rainfall earlier night due to washing away effect. Surface wind speed moderately increased but pollution level declined faster than expected as still weather conditions are not completely favourable except sporadic rain. This implies that air is lighter and free path increased to allow faster dispersion. in addition to cleaning by rain, it also tend to suggest that accumulative emission loading is relatively less. Stubble fire is almost negligible. The AQI is likley to remain in poor range tomorrow but slip back to 'very poor 'range thereafter," SAFAR added. Speaking to ANI, Nitin Kaushik, a fitness enthusiast, said, "The pollution level in Delhi has significantly come down due to the rain. I am happy that now I will be able to walk and cycle in the morning. Earlier, the situation was worse, I was not able to see the nearby building clearly due to smog. More people are now coming out for morning walks and exercise". However, residents suffering from respiratory diseases have been adviced by SAFAR to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion. They have also been asked to take more breaks and do less intense activities. Asthmatics must keep medicine ready if symptoms of coughing or shortness of breath occur. Heart patients must consult a doctor, in case of palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual fatigue. In an attempt to bring the air quality to a satisfactory level, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on Thursday issued an order to all the states to adopt a multi-method approach through in situ and ex-situ management of crop burning residue. It also directed the Narendra Modi-led government at the Centre to "disburse funds well in time" so that "states can utilise it properly". As per the directives issued by the NGT, the Chief Secretaries of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh held a two-hour long meeting with members of the green panel. Representatives from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, the Central Pollution Control Board and the Union Secretary Agriculture were also present at the meeting.

Delhi's air quality eases significantly, but relief temporary

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday challenged the Congress to make someone from outside the Gandhi family its chief for at least five years if it respected democracy, as he returned the Congress' barb that a 'chaiwala' could rise to power only because of democratic systems established by Pandit Jawahal Lal Nehru.

In an apparent attack on Gandhis, Modi also said that the family whose "four generations ruled the country" cannot fathom how can the son of a poor mother could sit on the "rajgaddi" (throne).

Addressing a poll rally here in Surguja district for the second phase of Chhattisgarh assembly elections scheduled for November 20, Modi also hit back at the Congress for questioning demonetisation, saying the move "still rankles" them as the money "stashed under beds and in sacks" was taken away in a single stroke.

While the BJP has been ruling Chhattisgarh for 15 continuous years, the Congress was in power in the state only for three years after the state was carved out of Madhya Pradesh in 2000. Traditionally, the two national parties have had a direct fight in this state, although a third force as emerged this time in form of an alliance between the parties of former Congress chief minister Ajit Jogi and of Dalit leader Mayawati.

Modi asked Congress to give account of what the four generations of the (Gandhi) family did for the nation before asking for an account of his government's four-and-half years' rule.

"Four generations of the Congress ruled the counry, but they have nothing to tell the people. We are everyday giving an account of what we have done in the last four years," he said.

"They (Congress leaders) are saying it was due to a great person, due to Pandit Nehru, that a 'chaiwala' (tea seller) became the prime minister," Modi said.

"If you so much respect the democracy, do a small thing. If you claim that because of your principles, your faith in democracy, the Constitution and Pandit Nehru, Modi, a chaiwala, could become the PM, appoint someone good from outside the (Gandhi) family as the Congress president for just five years," he said.

"If this happens, I will accept that Nehru ji created such a democratic system because of which anyone, (even) a dedicated Congressman outside the family could become the Congress chief," he said.

Congress leader Shashi Tharoor had said that it was due to the institutional structures created by Nehru that even a "chaiwala" could become India's prime minister. His party colleague Mallikarjun Kharge had also said earlier that a "chaiwala" could become the prime minister as the Congress preserved democracy.

Sitaram Kesri had served as the Congress president in the 1990s, but his tenure from September 1996 to March 1998 was less than five years.

Rahul Gandhi is currently president of the Congress party, while the post was held by his mother Sonia Gandhi before that. A Congress president mostly gets a three-year term, though there have been exceptions.

Continuing his barbs at the Gandhi family, Modi said the "contract of democracy" in the country was not given to one family, but they felt the Britishers had named India after it.

"They still keep crying that how could a chaiwala sit (on the PM's chair). How could he? They still cannot fathom how come the son of a poor mother could sit on the throne" he said.

Stating that such people cannot understand difficulties faced by the poor, but a chaiwala can, he said the credit for making a 'chaiwala' the prime minister goes to 125 crore Indians and not to Modi or the BJP.

The PM also took on Rahul Gandhi for attacking him over demonetisation, saying only one "family" is "crying" over the note-ban exercise.

"No one from those sitting here (in the rally) is crying over demonetisation, but only one family is crying. Their (Gandhis) associates lost their illegally earned money filled in bags, hidden inside their bed and pillow after demonetisation," the prime minister said. 
 
Modi also said Chhattisgarh was created peacefully during the tenure of Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, in contrast to violence during agitations for bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh under the Congress rule.

He said the BJP is the only unbiased party and it is guided by the mantra of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas', while the Congress kept the country in dark with lies that are ingrained in their minds.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday challenged the Congress to make someone from outside the Gandhi family its chief for at least five years if it respected democracy, as he returned the Congress' barb that a 'chaiwala' could rise to power only because of democratic systems established by Pandit Jawahal Lal Nehru.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday challenged the Congress to make someone from outside the Gandhi family its chief for at least five years if it respected democracy, as he returned the Congress' barb that a 'chaiwala' could rise to power only because of democratic systems established by Pandit Jawahal Lal Nehru. In an apparent attack on Gandhis, Modi also said that the family whose "four generations ruled the country" cannot fathom how can the son of a poor mother could sit on the "rajgaddi" (throne). Addressing a poll rally here in Surguja district for the second phase of Chhattisgarh assembly elections scheduled for November 20, Modi also hit back at the Congress for questioning demonetisation, saying the move "still rankles" them as the money "stashed under beds and in sacks" was taken away in a single stroke. While the BJP has been ruling Chhattisgarh for 15 continuous years, the Congress was in power in the state only for three years after the state was carved out of Madhya Pradesh in 2000. Traditionally, the two national parties have had a direct fight in this state, although a third force as emerged this time in form of an alliance between the parties of former Congress chief minister Ajit Jogi and of Dalit leader Mayawati. Modi asked Congress to give account of what the four generations of the (Gandhi) family did for the nation before asking for an account of his government's four-and-half years' rule. "Four generations of the Congress ruled the counry, but they have nothing to tell the people. We are everyday giving an account of what we have done in the last four years," he said. "They (Congress leaders) are saying it was due to a great person, due to Pandit Nehru, that a 'chaiwala' (tea seller) became the prime minister," Modi said. "If you so much respect the democracy, do a small thing. If you claim that because of your principles, your faith in democracy, the Constitution and Pandit Nehru, Modi, a chaiwala, could become the PM, appoint someone good from outside the (Gandhi) family as the Congress president for just five years," he said. "If this happens, I will accept that Nehru ji created such a democratic system because of which anyone, (even) a dedicated Congressman outside the family could become the Congress chief," he said. Congress leader Shashi Tharoor had said that it was due to the institutional structures created by Nehru that even a "chaiwala" could become India's prime minister. His party colleague Mallikarjun Kharge had also said earlier that a "chaiwala" could become the prime minister as the Congress preserved democracy. Sitaram Kesri had served as the Congress president in the 1990s, but his tenure from September 1996 to March 1998 was less than five years. Rahul Gandhi is currently president of the Congress party, while the post was held by his mother Sonia Gandhi before that. A Congress president mostly gets a three-year term, though there have been exceptions. Continuing his barbs at the Gandhi family, Modi said the "contract of democracy" in the country was not given to one family, but they felt the Britishers had named India after it. "They still keep crying that how could a chaiwala sit (on the PM's chair). How could he? They still cannot fathom how come the son of a poor mother could sit on the throne" he said. Stating that such people cannot understand difficulties faced by the poor, but a chaiwala can, he said the credit for making a 'chaiwala' the prime minister goes to 125 crore Indians and not to Modi or the BJP. The PM also took on Rahul Gandhi for attacking him over demonetisation, saying only one "family" is "crying" over the note-ban exercise. "No one from those sitting here (in the rally) is crying over demonetisation, but only one family is crying. Their (Gandhis) associates lost their illegally earned money filled in bags, hidden inside their bed and pillow after demonetisation," the prime minister said. Modi also said Chhattisgarh was created peacefully during the tenure of Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, in contrast to violence during agitations for bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh under the Congress rule. He said the BJP is the only unbiased party and it is guided by the mantra of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas', while the Congress kept the country in dark with lies that are ingrained in their minds.

Modi dares Congress to make a non-Gandhi party president for at least 5 years 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said he was ready for a contest between the performance of "four generations" of the Nehru-Gandhi family and that of "four years of a chaiwala", and asserted his government provided the poor people with amenities like access to banks, power and LPG which the Congress was unable to do during its 55-year rule.&nbsp;

Addressing a rally here ahead of the November 28 polls in Madhya Pradesh, Modi said the Congress, which was seeking an account of the BJP government's performance, should explain what it did for the state during its over five-decade rule.

"It is clear before you, 15 years (of the BJP rule in Madhya Pradesh) versus 55 years (of the Congress rule). And I am surprised! You should also seek an account of (the performance of) Modi. I insist on it.&nbsp;

"What have the governments of four generations of a family given to the nation and what has a chaiwala given in four years. Come on, let there be a contest," he added.

Modi said his government has ensured that every poor in the country has a bank account and it was done in just four years, while the Congress gave the slogan of 'garibi hatao' (eradicate poverty) in early 1970s, but did nothing.

"Indira Gandhi had carried out nationalisation of banks with an aim to ensure that all have access to the banking facilities. But the poor did not benefit.

"Now this government has ensured that all poor have bank accounts and we did it in just four years," he said.

"What they were unable to do in 55 years, we have done in four years including in (providing) electricity, LPG and roads, among other things," he said, listing the achievements of his government.

Calling Congress leaders "jhooth ke shehanshah" (king of lies), he alleged that their actions belie their words and it was "part of the Congress' character".

Without naming anyone, Modi said, "In Parliament, too, Congress leaders talk of love, but express anger in Madhya Pradesh."

Speaking on the no-confidence motion in the Lok Sabha on July 20 this year, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi had targeted Modi and projected the RSS, BJP and its top leaders as agents of "anger and hatred" and "thanked" them for making him understand the meaning of being a Congressman, an Indian and a Hindu and enabling him to have only "love" for them. Gandhi had reated a flutter when he went across to the treasury benches and embraced the Prime Minister.

Accusing the Congress of spreading lies, Modi on Friday said he was surprised as to how the country's oldest political party could get elected "for so many years". Modi said it was because the opposition was less powerful then and the media was not as vibrant as it is now.

"Hence, whatever lies they would serve, those would percolate down. And people would buy the lies as being truths. Now, we learn how much lies the 'shehanshah of lies' speaks, how many times and where. They must be blabbering lies when asleep," he quipped.

Hitting back at Gandhi, who termed demonetisation as the biggest scam in the history of independent India during a rally in the state, Modi said "only those Congress leaders, who earned money unfairly, are crying" over the note ban and not the common man.

Modi said that the common man was no longer hassled due to the note-ban exercise announced by him on November 8, 2016.

"They did face problems earlier and even we have said so, but not now," he said.

He asked the audience whether they were still facing problems due to the scrapping of the old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, and they replied in the negative. Modi also asked whether or not it was not right to bring the money "lying under the pillows and elsewhere" into the banking system.

"Post-demonetisation only those Congress leaders, who earned money unfairly, are crying and not the common man," he said.

Modi hailed the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government in the state for building roads, hospitals and other public infrastructure facilities.

The PM said the Centre was working towards achieving the goal of housing for all by 2022, when India completes 75 years of its independence.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said he was ready for a contest between the performance of "four generations" of the Nehru-Gandhi family and that of "four years of a chaiwala", and asserted his government provided the poor people with amenities like access to banks, power and LPG which the Congress was unable to do during its 55-year rule.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said he was ready for a contest between the performance of "four generations" of the Nehru-Gandhi family and that of "four years of a chaiwala", and asserted his government provided the poor people with amenities like access to banks, power and LPG which the Congress was unable to do during its 55-year rule. Addressing a rally here ahead of the November 28 polls in Madhya Pradesh, Modi said the Congress, which was seeking an account of the BJP government's performance, should explain what it did for the state during its over five-decade rule. "It is clear before you, 15 years (of the BJP rule in Madhya Pradesh) versus 55 years (of the Congress rule). And I am surprised! You should also seek an account of (the performance of) Modi. I insist on it. "What have the governments of four generations of a family given to the nation and what has a chaiwala given in four years. Come on, let there be a contest," he added. Modi said his government has ensured that every poor in the country has a bank account and it was done in just four years, while the Congress gave the slogan of 'garibi hatao' (eradicate poverty) in early 1970s, but did nothing. "Indira Gandhi had carried out nationalisation of banks with an aim to ensure that all have access to the banking facilities. But the poor did not benefit. "Now this government has ensured that all poor have bank accounts and we did it in just four years," he said. "What they were unable to do in 55 years, we have done in four years including in (providing) electricity, LPG and roads, among other things," he said, listing the achievements of his government. Calling Congress leaders "jhooth ke shehanshah" (king of lies), he alleged that their actions belie their words and it was "part of the Congress' character". Without naming anyone, Modi said, "In Parliament, too, Congress leaders talk of love, but express anger in Madhya Pradesh." Speaking on the no-confidence motion in the Lok Sabha on July 20 this year, Congress chief Rahul Gandhi had targeted Modi and projected the RSS, BJP and its top leaders as agents of "anger and hatred" and "thanked" them for making him understand the meaning of being a Congressman, an Indian and a Hindu and enabling him to have only "love" for them. Gandhi had reated a flutter when he went across to the treasury benches and embraced the Prime Minister. Accusing the Congress of spreading lies, Modi on Friday said he was surprised as to how the country's oldest political party could get elected "for so many years". Modi said it was because the opposition was less powerful then and the media was not as vibrant as it is now. "Hence, whatever lies they would serve, those would percolate down. And people would buy the lies as being truths. Now, we learn how much lies the 'shehanshah of lies' speaks, how many times and where. They must be blabbering lies when asleep," he quipped. Hitting back at Gandhi, who termed demonetisation as the biggest scam in the history of independent India during a rally in the state, Modi said "only those Congress leaders, who earned money unfairly, are crying" over the note ban and not the common man. Modi said that the common man was no longer hassled due to the note-ban exercise announced by him on November 8, 2016. "They did face problems earlier and even we have said so, but not now," he said. He asked the audience whether they were still facing problems due to the scrapping of the old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, and they replied in the negative. Modi also asked whether or not it was not right to bring the money "lying under the pillows and elsewhere" into the banking system. "Post-demonetisation only those Congress leaders, who earned money unfairly, are crying and not the common man," he said. Modi hailed the Shivraj Singh Chouhan government in the state for building roads, hospitals and other public infrastructure facilities. The PM said the Centre was working towards achieving the goal of housing for all by 2022, when India completes 75 years of its independence.

Let there be contest to assess performance of 'family' and 'chaiwala': PM Modi

The Andhra Pradesh government's decision to withdraw the "general consent" accorded to the CBI to conduct raids and carry out probe in the state drew support from opposition parties with West Bengal government following suit even as the BJP alleged that it was an attempt by a "grand alliance of most corrupt parties" to ensure that its "corruption" was not exposed.

Escalating its confrontation with the Union government, the Chandrababu Naidu dispensation in Andhra Pradesh withdrew its consent to the CBI. The West Bengal government did the same this evening.

BJP spokesperson G V L Narasimhra Rao described the Telugu Desam Party government's order as a "clear mala fide exercise of power" to ensure that its "corruption" was not exposed, alleging that a "grand alliance of most corrupt parties" had taken shape to protect their interests.

Leaders of the Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal and the Gandhi family of the Congress were facing probe in "corruption" cases, he said, adding that it had led to a "convergence of their interests" with Naidu.

However, the Congress cited the Andhra Pradesh government's decision to claims that states do not have faith in the CBI and other central agencies due to their "misuse" by the Narendra Modi government at the Centre.

"Unfortunately in the last four-five years they (central agencies) have been treated like private armies of Amit Shah (BJP chief) and the prime minister... That is why people doubt the ability of CBI to act independently or to act without pressure," Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said.

He described it as a "very dangerous trend".

After the Andhra Pradesh government's announcement, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee extended her support to her counterpart Naidu over the issue.

"What Chandrababu Naidu has done is absolutely right. Earlier, we didn't need to use such provisions but we need to do it now as the BJP is using the CBI and other agencies to pursue its own political interests and vendetta," she said in Kolkata.

Aam Aadmi Party chief and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal too backed Naidu.

"Chandrababu did the right thing. Modi ji is misusing CBI and Income Tax department. Why did not CBI catch scamsters of demonetisation," he tweeted in Hindi.

Hitting back at opposition parties, Rao said, "We are seeing a grand alliance of the most corrupt parties. Their interests have converged to ensure that their corruption is not exposed."

The Andhra government's decision showed that it had many skeletons in its cupboards, he alleged.

"A nervous and completely rattled Naidu is trying to save his government," Rao told reporters.

Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister (Home) N China Rajappa cited the recent allegations against the top CBI officials to justify the decision.

"We have trust in the CBI but the recent allegations against its top officials have made us withdraw the general consent. Henceforth, the CBI has to obtain the state governments permission for investigating every case," Rajappa said.

The Andhra Pradesh government's decision to withdraw the "general consent" accorded to the CBI to conduct raids and carry out probe in the state drew support from opposition parties with West Bengal government following suit even as the BJP alleged that it was an attempt by a "grand alliance of most corrupt parties" to ensure that its "corruption" was not exposed.

The Andhra Pradesh government's decision to withdraw the "general consent" accorded to the CBI to conduct raids and carry out probe in the state drew support from opposition parties with West Bengal government following suit even as the BJP alleged that it was an attempt by a "grand alliance of most corrupt parties" to ensure that its "corruption" was not exposed. Escalating its confrontation with the Union government, the Chandrababu Naidu dispensation in Andhra Pradesh withdrew its consent to the CBI. The West Bengal government did the same this evening. BJP spokesperson G V L Narasimhra Rao described the Telugu Desam Party government's order as a "clear mala fide exercise of power" to ensure that its "corruption" was not exposed, alleging that a "grand alliance of most corrupt parties" had taken shape to protect their interests. Leaders of the Trinamool Congress government in West Bengal and the Gandhi family of the Congress were facing probe in "corruption" cases, he said, adding that it had led to a "convergence of their interests" with Naidu. However, the Congress cited the Andhra Pradesh government's decision to claims that states do not have faith in the CBI and other central agencies due to their "misuse" by the Narendra Modi government at the Centre. "Unfortunately in the last four-five years they (central agencies) have been treated like private armies of Amit Shah (BJP chief) and the prime minister... That is why people doubt the ability of CBI to act independently or to act without pressure," Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said. He described it as a "very dangerous trend". After the Andhra Pradesh government's announcement, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee extended her support to her counterpart Naidu over the issue. "What Chandrababu Naidu has done is absolutely right. Earlier, we didn't need to use such provisions but we need to do it now as the BJP is using the CBI and other agencies to pursue its own political interests and vendetta," she said in Kolkata. Aam Aadmi Party chief and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal too backed Naidu. "Chandrababu did the right thing. Modi ji is misusing CBI and Income Tax department. Why did not CBI catch scamsters of demonetisation," he tweeted in Hindi. Hitting back at opposition parties, Rao said, "We are seeing a grand alliance of the most corrupt parties. Their interests have converged to ensure that their corruption is not exposed." The Andhra government's decision showed that it had many skeletons in its cupboards, he alleged. "A nervous and completely rattled Naidu is trying to save his government," Rao told reporters. Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister (Home) N China Rajappa cited the recent allegations against the top CBI officials to justify the decision. "We have trust in the CBI but the recent allegations against its top officials have made us withdraw the general consent. Henceforth, the CBI has to obtain the state governments permission for investigating every case," Rajappa said.

After Andhra, West Bengal withdraws 'general consent' to CBI, BJP sees 'grand alliance of corrupt parties'

The UN member states have become "guardians of the status quo" due to their inaction and inertia in the face of stark global challenges like terrorism and climate change, India has said, calling on the international community to catalyse its efforts to rejuvenate and revitalise the world body as it inches closer to completing 75 years of existence.

Participating in the UN General Assembly debate on 'Revitalisation of the Work of the General Assembly', Akbaruddin said that despite being faced with such challenges, UN member states have tended to "muddle along, holding meetings, taking some minor stabs at enhancing international cooperation at the margins, becoming guardians of the status quo.

"Today, there is a proliferation of new transnational threats such as terrorism requiring comprehensive cooperation, accelerating technological change requiring broad norm setting, and worsening environmental degradation requiring immediate climate action. Our challenges have become stark," India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin said here Thursday.

"Our inertia is considerable, even when it is clear that collective action is required. We steer clear from action, pleading consensus is required for change," he said. 
Akbaruddin called for nations to acknowledge that their collective record as the General Assembly is mixed.&nbsp;

"Just as generals too often refight their last war, we diplomats are struggling to overcome our legacy issues, even as the variety and intricacy of new demands for international cooperation has expanded," he said.

Given that the world is awash with new challenges, Akbaruddin said the 75th anniversary of the UN, to be marked in less than two years, is an appropriate opportunity for all nations to catalyse their efforts to rejuvenate and revitalise.&nbsp;

"The agenda for such revitalisation needs to be broad and inclusive, as well as transformative and imbued with the objective of breathing new life."

"To effectively make a difference, we need to undertake a new journey. A journey which needs to begin soon. The General Assembly, with its universal membership, can be a precious asset in this effort for change," he said.

Noting that the principal purpose of the General Assembly is not to usurp the role of sovereign states, Akbaruddin said other global institution can match its representative character and the credibility that it derives from such representativeness.

"Decision-making in the General Assembly is not a threat to sovereignty. It is an expression of sovereign equality and opportunity for all to influence global problem-solving," he said.

Emphasizing that proliferating global problems demand new narratives, the Indian envoy said if the General Assembly is not delivering all that is wanted, the solution is not to give up on it.&nbsp;

"Rather, we must make it deliver results for today," he said.

Quoting Swami Vivekananda, Akbaruddin said people reap what they sow, Akbaruddin said the revitalization agenda is a challenge for diplomacy but it is a challenge worth taking up, "if we want to maximise the prospects for a peaceful &amp; prosperous 21st century."

During the debate, delegates said that a streamlined General Assembly will protect multilateralism and increase the capacity of the United Nations to address emerging challenges.

"The need of revitalizing the Assembly the most representative United Nations organ is indispensable to responding to global challenges and achieving the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development," said Assembly President Mara Fernanda Espinosa Garces as she opened the debate.

She said efforts are taking place at a time when doubts are emerging about the multilateral system's ability to address international challenges. World leaders must look at the Assembly as the main body to discuss the most pressing global challenges, she stressed, asserting that States attach great importance to the role of the United Nations within the multilateral system.&nbsp;

The UN member states have become "guardians of the status quo" due to their inaction and inertia in the face of stark global challenges like terrorism and climate change, India has said, calling on the international community to catalyse its efforts to rejuvenate and revitalise the world body as it inches closer to completing 75 years of existence.

The UN member states have become "guardians of the status quo" due to their inaction and inertia in the face of stark global challenges like terrorism and climate change, India has said, calling on the international community to catalyse its efforts to rejuvenate and revitalise the world body as it inches closer to completing 75 years of existence. Participating in the UN General Assembly debate on 'Revitalisation of the Work of the General Assembly', Akbaruddin said that despite being faced with such challenges, UN member states have tended to "muddle along, holding meetings, taking some minor stabs at enhancing international cooperation at the margins, becoming guardians of the status quo. "Today, there is a proliferation of new transnational threats such as terrorism requiring comprehensive cooperation, accelerating technological change requiring broad norm setting, and worsening environmental degradation requiring immediate climate action. Our challenges have become stark," India's Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin said here Thursday. "Our inertia is considerable, even when it is clear that collective action is required. We steer clear from action, pleading consensus is required for change," he said. Akbaruddin called for nations to acknowledge that their collective record as the General Assembly is mixed. "Just as generals too often refight their last war, we diplomats are struggling to overcome our legacy issues, even as the variety and intricacy of new demands for international cooperation has expanded," he said. Given that the world is awash with new challenges, Akbaruddin said the 75th anniversary of the UN, to be marked in less than two years, is an appropriate opportunity for all nations to catalyse their efforts to rejuvenate and revitalise. "The agenda for such revitalisation needs to be broad and inclusive, as well as transformative and imbued with the objective of breathing new life." "To effectively make a difference, we need to undertake a new journey. A journey which needs to begin soon. The General Assembly, with its universal membership, can be a precious asset in this effort for change," he said. Noting that the principal purpose of the General Assembly is not to usurp the role of sovereign states, Akbaruddin said other global institution can match its representative character and the credibility that it derives from such representativeness. "Decision-making in the General Assembly is not a threat to sovereignty. It is an expression of sovereign equality and opportunity for all to influence global problem-solving," he said. Emphasizing that proliferating global problems demand new narratives, the Indian envoy said if the General Assembly is not delivering all that is wanted, the solution is not to give up on it. "Rather, we must make it deliver results for today," he said. Quoting Swami Vivekananda, Akbaruddin said people reap what they sow, Akbaruddin said the revitalization agenda is a challenge for diplomacy but it is a challenge worth taking up, "if we want to maximise the prospects for a peaceful & prosperous 21st century." During the debate, delegates said that a streamlined General Assembly will protect multilateralism and increase the capacity of the United Nations to address emerging challenges. "The need of revitalizing the Assembly the most representative United Nations organ is indispensable to responding to global challenges and achieving the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development," said Assembly President Mara Fernanda Espinosa Garces as she opened the debate. She said efforts are taking place at a time when doubts are emerging about the multilateral system's ability to address international challenges. World leaders must look at the Assembly as the main body to discuss the most pressing global challenges, she stressed, asserting that States attach great importance to the role of the United Nations within the multilateral system.

UN member states guardians of status quo, need for rejuvenating, revitalising UNGA: India

Ahead of the PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping's meet in Argentina on the sidelines of G20 Summit, Chinese Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui has lauded India-China ties saying that they are in the best periods of history.&nbsp;

"China India relations are at one of the best periods in history. President Xi Jinping and Prime minister Modij held the Wuhan informal summit this April. It is a historic milestone in the bilateral relations and both the sides are implementing the consensus reached by the leaders," said Zhaohui.&nbsp;

Speaking at the first India-China Youth Dialogue 2018 at the Chinese Embassy, he said Argentina meeting between Indian PM and Chinese President will be the fourth meeting between the duo. They first met for the informal summit in Wuhan, followed by meetings on the sidelines of SCO in China and BRICS in South Africa.

''sound bilateral relations and friendly cooperation have provided a solid basis and opportunities for youth exchanges,'' the Chinese ambassador said. 
&nbsp; 
Later this year, a 200 Chinese youth delegation will visit India. Every year India and China organize 2-way exchanges of 200 member youth delegation. Both governments have provided scholarships also.

Highlighting the complementarities, Zhaohui said "both of us (India &amp; China ) are carrying out economic reforms and opening policies. &nbsp;China is pursuing the "Chinese Dream". India is building the "New India". Development strategies of both countries call for more cooperation."

The Dangal Connect

Increasingly, Bollywood has become a major success with movies like Dangal, Secret Superstar, Bajrangi Bhaijaan becoming a runaway success in China.

Zhaohui recalled his meeting with Amitabh Bachchan and Amir Khan and said "Dangal'' and ''Secret Superstar'' were box office success in China".&nbsp;

Chinese President Xi Jinping had famously told PM Modi that he liked watching Dangal.

The ambassador highlighted the increased popularity of Indian culture saying three things are most fashionable among Chinese youth in urban areas, namely, watching Bollywood movies, practising Yoga and tasting Darjeeling tea.

Ahead of the PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping's meet in Argentina on the sidelines of G20 Summit, Chinese Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui has lauded India-China ties saying that they are in the best periods of history.

Ahead of the PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping's meet in Argentina on the sidelines of G20 Summit, Chinese Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui has lauded India-China ties saying that they are in the best periods of history. "China India relations are at one of the best periods in history. President Xi Jinping and Prime minister Modij held the Wuhan informal summit this April. It is a historic milestone in the bilateral relations and both the sides are implementing the consensus reached by the leaders," said Zhaohui. Speaking at the first India-China Youth Dialogue 2018 at the Chinese Embassy, he said Argentina meeting between Indian PM and Chinese President will be the fourth meeting between the duo. They first met for the informal summit in Wuhan, followed by meetings on the sidelines of SCO in China and BRICS in South Africa. ''sound bilateral relations and friendly cooperation have provided a solid basis and opportunities for youth exchanges,'' the Chinese ambassador said. Later this year, a 200 Chinese youth delegation will visit India. Every year India and China organize 2-way exchanges of 200 member youth delegation. Both governments have provided scholarships also. Highlighting the complementarities, Zhaohui said "both of us (India & China ) are carrying out economic reforms and opening policies. China is pursuing the "Chinese Dream". India is building the "New India". Development strategies of both countries call for more cooperation." The Dangal Connect Increasingly, Bollywood has become a major success with movies like Dangal, Secret Superstar, Bajrangi Bhaijaan becoming a runaway success in China. Zhaohui recalled his meeting with Amitabh Bachchan and Amir Khan and said "Dangal'' and ''Secret Superstar'' were box office success in China". Chinese President Xi Jinping had famously told PM Modi that he liked watching Dangal. The ambassador highlighted the increased popularity of Indian culture saying three things are most fashionable among Chinese youth in urban areas, namely, watching Bollywood movies, practising Yoga and tasting Darjeeling tea.

China-India relations at best periods in history: Chinese Ambassador to New Delhi 

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday alleged that under the Modi government "fast entry gates" of ministries "open for those who possess fake degrees".&nbsp;

Gandhi also attacked the RSS alleging that its "farjical (fake) strike" continues on educational institutes of the Delhi University.

Taking to Twitter, he launched a tirade against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying," Shri chappan aur unke mantriyon ne chatron ko dikhaya hai ki BJP mai mantrimandal ka shighra dwar farzi degree dikha kar khulta hai. ('Mr 56' and his ministers have shown students that under the BJP fast entry gates of ministries open for those who possess fake degrees)."&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
श्री छप्पन और उनके मंत्रियों ने छात्रों को दिखाया है कि भाजपा में मंत्रीमंडल का शीघ्र द्वार फ़र्ज़ी डिग्री दिखा कर खुलता है| 
 
शैक्षिक संस्थानों पर प्रहार और फ़र्ज़ी डिग्री वालों को सत्ता पर बिठाना RSS का पुराना सिद्धांत है| 
 
इसीलिए DU पर RSS का फ़र्जिकल स्ट्राइक जारी है| <a href="https://t.co/VrKBLtzeDF">pic.twitter.com/VrKBLtzeDF</a>
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) <a href="https://twitter.com/RahulGandhi/status/1063374365822210049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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There was no immediate comment from the Prime Minister's Office or the BJP.&nbsp;

"The RSS' has an old tradition of attacking educational institutions and helping those with fake degrees attain power.

"That is why the 'farjical strikes' of RSS continue on Delhi University," he tweeted in Hindi.

The Congress chief also tweeted a picture of Modi, Union minister Smriti Irani and ABVP's Delhi University president Ankiv Baisoya, alleging "Fake degree is in BJP's DNA".

Baisoya has stepped down from his post after reports of him possessing a fake degree.

The ABVP said Thursday DUSU president Baisoya has resigned from his post after it asked him to do so, and has also been suspended from the students outfit till an inquiry into allegations that he gained admission to the Delhi University on the basis of a fake degree.

While the RSS-affiliated Akhil Bhartiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) said the decision was taken to maintain the "genuineness" of the Delhi University Students

Union (DUSU), the move drew criticism from the NSUI and AISA, which claimed it was done under pressure ahead of the high court hearing on November 20.

In a Facebook post, Baisoya said he was resigning form the post of DUSU president because he respects the mandate of Delhi University students, who voted for him.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday alleged that under the Modi government "fast entry gates" of ministries "open for those who possess fake degrees". Gandhi also attacked the RSS alleging that its "farjical (fake) strike" continues on educational institutes of the Delhi University.

Congress president Rahul Gandhi Friday alleged that under the Modi government "fast entry gates" of ministries "open for those who possess fake degrees". Gandhi also attacked the RSS alleging that its "farjical (fake) strike" continues on educational institutes of the Delhi University. Taking to Twitter, he launched a tirade against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying," Shri chappan aur unke mantriyon ne chatron ko dikhaya hai ki BJP mai mantrimandal ka shighra dwar farzi degree dikha kar khulta hai. ('Mr 56' and his ministers have shown students that under the BJP fast entry gates of ministries open for those who possess fake degrees)." श्री छप्पन और उनके मंत्रियों ने छात्रों को दिखाया है कि भाजपा में मंत्रीमंडल का शीघ्र द्वार फ़र्ज़ी डिग्री दिखा कर खुलता है| शैक्षिक संस्थानों पर प्रहार और फ़र्ज़ी डिग्री वालों को सत्ता पर बिठाना RSS का पुराना सिद्धांत है| इसीलिए DU पर RSS का फ़र्जिकल स्ट्राइक जारी है| pic.twitter.com/VrKBLtzeDF — Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) November 16, 2018 × There was no immediate comment from the Prime Minister's Office or the BJP. "The RSS' has an old tradition of attacking educational institutions and helping those with fake degrees attain power. "That is why the 'farjical strikes' of RSS continue on Delhi University," he tweeted in Hindi. The Congress chief also tweeted a picture of Modi, Union minister Smriti Irani and ABVP's Delhi University president Ankiv Baisoya, alleging "Fake degree is in BJP's DNA". Baisoya has stepped down from his post after reports of him possessing a fake degree. The ABVP said Thursday DUSU president Baisoya has resigned from his post after it asked him to do so, and has also been suspended from the students outfit till an inquiry into allegations that he gained admission to the Delhi University on the basis of a fake degree. While the RSS-affiliated Akhil Bhartiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) said the decision was taken to maintain the "genuineness" of the Delhi University Students Union (DUSU), the move drew criticism from the NSUI and AISA, which claimed it was done under pressure ahead of the high court hearing on November 20. In a Facebook post, Baisoya said he was resigning form the post of DUSU president because he respects the mandate of Delhi University students, who voted for him.

Under Modi govt, 'fast entry gates' of ministries open for those with 'fake degrees': Rahul

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President Amit Shah will crisscross poll-bound Madhya Pradesh from Friday starting with a public meeting in Shahdol district, over 500 kilometres from Bhopal, a senior BJP functionary said Thursday.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP President Amit Shah and Congress President Rahul Gandhi to hold public rallies in Madhya Pradesh, later in the day. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MadhyaPradeshElections2018?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MadhyaPradeshElections2018</a>(File pics) <a href="https://t.co/2cdmRPoeoM">pic.twitter.com/2cdmRPoeoM</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1063273181614616577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The prime minister will address two public meetings, mostly on alternate days, starting Friday, state BJP chief Rakesh Singh said.

After the rally at Shahdol Friday, Modi will be in Gwalior to address another rally before flying back to Delhi, Singh informed.

He will return and address public meetings in Chhindwara and Indore on Sunday before returning to Delhi, Singh added.

The prime minister will again visit Madhya Pradesh on Tuesday and address public meetings in Jhabua and Rewa districts.

Three days later, on Saturday, Modi will return to the state and address public meetings in Mandsaur and Chhattarpur districts, Singh said.

The next day (November 25), he will deliver speeches in Vidisha and Jabalpur districts, he added.

MP BJP spokesperson Anil Soumitra said PM Modi was a charismatic leader and his visits to MP will immensely benefit the party which he claimed will win over 200 assembly seats out of 230 in the state.

Meanwhile, MP Congress spokesperson Pankaj Chaturvedi claimed Modi's visit won't have any impact, adding that the state government was facing a strong anti-incumbency wave.

He claimed the Congress was set to sweep the Assembly polls scheduled for November 28.

The results will be declared on December 11.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President Amit Shah will crisscross poll-bound Madhya Pradesh from Friday starting with a public meeting in Shahdol district, over 500 kilometres from Bhopal, a senior BJP functionary said Thursday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President Amit Shah will crisscross poll-bound Madhya Pradesh from Friday starting with a public meeting in Shahdol district, over 500 kilometres from Bhopal, a senior BJP functionary said Thursday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP President Amit Shah and Congress President Rahul Gandhi to hold public rallies in Madhya Pradesh, later in the day. #MadhyaPradeshElections2018(File pics) pic.twitter.com/2cdmRPoeoM — ANI (@ANI) November 16, 2018 × The prime minister will address two public meetings, mostly on alternate days, starting Friday, state BJP chief Rakesh Singh said. After the rally at Shahdol Friday, Modi will be in Gwalior to address another rally before flying back to Delhi, Singh informed. He will return and address public meetings in Chhindwara and Indore on Sunday before returning to Delhi, Singh added. The prime minister will again visit Madhya Pradesh on Tuesday and address public meetings in Jhabua and Rewa districts. Three days later, on Saturday, Modi will return to the state and address public meetings in Mandsaur and Chhattarpur districts, Singh said. The next day (November 25), he will deliver speeches in Vidisha and Jabalpur districts, he added. MP BJP spokesperson Anil Soumitra said PM Modi was a charismatic leader and his visits to MP will immensely benefit the party which he claimed will win over 200 assembly seats out of 230 in the state. Meanwhile, MP Congress spokesperson Pankaj Chaturvedi claimed Modi's visit won't have any impact, adding that the state government was facing a strong anti-incumbency wave. He claimed the Congress was set to sweep the Assembly polls scheduled for November 28. The results will be declared on December 11.

PM Narendra Modi to address rallies today in poll-bound Madhya Pradesh

Hundreds of protestors chanting Ayyapa hymns gathered outside Kochin airport on Friday as social activist Trupti Desai who has vowed to enter Sabarimala temple on November 17 arrived from Pune.

According to reports, as protestors agitated against the activist, Trupti Desai&nbsp;has been forced to stay inside the&nbsp;airprot. She is also said to have not been allowed&nbsp;to move out from the arrival terminal.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/sabarimala-kerala-govt-wonders-if-women-can-visit-temple-on-separate-days-from-men-177566">Kerala govt wonders if women can visit Sabarimala temple on separate days from men</a>

Trupti Desai had said that she along with six other young women would offer prayers at the shrine on November 17. She has also written to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-are-bound-to-implement-supreme-court-verdict-kerala-cm-on-sabarimala-177515">chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan</a> to seek protection from the state government after she allegedly faced death threats.

"Protestors should not resort to violence. Once we reach there, we'll see what level of security state gives us. Even if the state doesn't give us any security, we'll still go, but I can be attacked. I have received so many threats of attack &amp; killing, " Trupti Desai said.

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Protestors should not resort to violence. Once we reach there, we'll see what level of security state gives us. Even if the state doesn't give us any security, we'll still go, but I can be attacked. I have received so many threats of attack &amp; killing: Trupti Desai. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sabarimala?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sabarimala</a> <a href="https://t.co/AAVKTqfuWg">pic.twitter.com/AAVKTqfuWg</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1063261878573514752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The BJP leader, MN Gopi has said that they will not allow Desai to come out from the airport using a police vehicle or other government means.

"Won't allow Trupti Desai to go out from the airport using police vehicle or other government means. Airport taxies also will not take her. If she wants, she can use her own vehicle. There will be agitations all along her way even if she&nbsp;goes out from an airport, MN Gopi said.

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Won't allow Trupti Desai to go out from airport using police vehicle or other govt means.Airport taxies also won't take her.If she wants,she can use her own vehicle.There will be agitations all along her way even if she goes out from airport: MN Gopi, BJP, outside Cochin airport <a href="https://t.co/sRoT0kZtUj">pic.twitter.com/sRoT0kZtUj</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1063251317408391168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Sabarimala temple will reopen at 5 pm today with unprecedented security for the two-month-long annual pilgrim season. The temple is opening&nbsp;for the third time since the Supreme Court lifted the age-old ban on entry of women in 10-50 age group, though no girl or woman&nbsp;in the age group has been allowed to offer prayers so far following stiff resistance&nbsp;by devotees and activists, opposing any change in the temple traditions.

Devotees will be allowed into the shrine from 5 pm to 10 pm but&nbsp;pujas will be held only from the next day, the first day of Malayalam month of 'Vrischikom', PTI reported.

Officials has&nbsp;also said prohibitory orders under section 144 Criminal Procedure Code banning assembly of four or more people would be in force in Sabarimala from midnight Thursday for a week.

State Director General of Police Loknath Behara informed reporters on Thurday that security has been doubled at Sabarimala and nearby areas for the season, compared to the previous two occasions when the temple opened last month and early this month.

Over 15,000 personnel, including women police personnel and 860 women civil police officers, has been deployed for the season, when lakhs of devotees from different parts of the country are expected to throng the shrine, police said.

Frenzied devotees had prevented at least a dozen women in 10-50 age group from entering the temple when it opened for five days last month and two days this month for monthly and special puja amid high drama.

Hundreds of protestors chanting Ayyapa hymns gathered outside Kochin airport on Friday as social activist Trupti Desai who has vowed to enter Sabarimala temple on November 17 arrived from Pune.

Hundreds of protestors chanting Ayyapa hymns gathered outside Kochin airport on Friday as social activist Trupti Desai who has vowed to enter Sabarimala temple on November 17 arrived from Pune. According to reports, as protestors agitated against the activist, Trupti Desai has been forced to stay inside the airprot. She is also said to have not been allowed to move out from the arrival terminal. Also read: Kerala govt wonders if women can visit Sabarimala temple on separate days from men Trupti Desai had said that she along with six other young women would offer prayers at the shrine on November 17. She has also written to chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan to seek protection from the state government after she allegedly faced death threats. "Protestors should not resort to violence. Once we reach there, we'll see what level of security state gives us. Even if the state doesn't give us any security, we'll still go, but I can be attacked. I have received so many threats of attack & killing, " Trupti Desai said. Protestors should not resort to violence. Once we reach there, we'll see what level of security state gives us. Even if the state doesn't give us any security, we'll still go, but I can be attacked. I have received so many threats of attack & killing: Trupti Desai. #Sabarimala pic.twitter.com/AAVKTqfuWg — ANI (@ANI) November 16, 2018 × The BJP leader, MN Gopi has said that they will not allow Desai to come out from the airport using a police vehicle or other government means. "Won't allow Trupti Desai to go out from the airport using police vehicle or other government means. Airport taxies also will not take her. If she wants, she can use her own vehicle. There will be agitations all along her way even if she goes out from an airport, MN Gopi said. Won't allow Trupti Desai to go out from airport using police vehicle or other govt means.Airport taxies also won't take her.If she wants,she can use her own vehicle.There will be agitations all along her way even if she goes out from airport: MN Gopi, BJP, outside Cochin airport pic.twitter.com/sRoT0kZtUj — ANI (@ANI) November 16, 2018 × The Sabarimala temple will reopen at 5 pm today with unprecedented security for the two-month-long annual pilgrim season. The temple is opening for the third time since the Supreme Court lifted the age-old ban on entry of women in 10-50 age group, though no girl or woman in the age group has been allowed to offer prayers so far following stiff resistance by devotees and activists, opposing any change in the temple traditions. Devotees will be allowed into the shrine from 5 pm to 10 pm but pujas will be held only from the next day, the first day of Malayalam month of 'Vrischikom', PTI reported. Officials has also said prohibitory orders under section 144 Criminal Procedure Code banning assembly of four or more people would be in force in Sabarimala from midnight Thursday for a week. State Director General of Police Loknath Behara informed reporters on Thurday that security has been doubled at Sabarimala and nearby areas for the season, compared to the previous two occasions when the temple opened last month and early this month. Over 15,000 personnel, including women police personnel and 860 women civil police officers, has been deployed for the season, when lakhs of devotees from different parts of the country are expected to throng the shrine, police said. Frenzied devotees had prevented at least a dozen women in 10-50 age group from entering the temple when it opened for five days last month and two days this month for monthly and special puja amid high drama.

Sabarimala row: Tension prevails at Kochi airport as Trupti Desai arrives to visit temple

Addressing China-Indian Youth dialogue in Delhi on Friday, Chinese Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui said the relations between India and China were at its "best right now".

"China- India relations are at its best right now. President Xi Jinping's and PM Modi's informal summit marked a historical milestone in the bilateral relations between the two countries".

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China- India relations are at its best right now. President Xi Jinping's &amp; PM Modi's informal summit marked a historical milestone in the bilateral relations between the two countries: Chinese Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui at China-India Youth dialogue in Delhi, earlier today <a href="https://t.co/oiEzNHL2p0">pic.twitter.com/oiEzNHL2p0</a>
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The Chinese Ambassador to India further stressed on improving the relations between the two countries by encouraging youth exchange.

"We encourage more Indian students to study in China and more Chinese students to study in India. There're more than 20 Chinese universities teaching Hindi. We'll encourage more Indian universities and educational institutions to teach Chinese, " Zhaohui said.

"Three things are most fashionable among the Chinese youth in urban areas of China- watching Bollywood movies, practicing Yoga and tasting the Darjeeling tea," Zhaohui added.

He also suggested ways through which exchanges between youths of the two countries could be strengthened.

"The interaction with CYL should be more often and should be regularised. Second, we need to expand the scope of exchanges among the youth and arrange some dialogues with the big cities," he said.

"Third we shall encourage more exchange programs in sports and movie industry. Fourth, we shall encourage more Indian engineers to work in China and more Indian students to work in Chinese enterprises in India, he added.

"Fifth, we shall encourage more Indian students to study in China and more Chinese students to study in India. Sixth, we will work with the Indian government to map out a plan for youth exchanges," Luo said.&nbsp;

The dialogue was organised jointly by the Chinese embassy and the Confederation of Young Leaders (CYL).

(With inputs from agencies)

Addressing China-Indian Youth dialogue in Delhi on Friday, Chinese Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui said the relations between India and China were at its "best right now".

Addressing China-Indian Youth dialogue in Delhi on Friday, Chinese Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui said the relations between India and China were at its "best right now". "China- India relations are at its best right now. President Xi Jinping's and PM Modi's informal summit marked a historical milestone in the bilateral relations between the two countries". China- India relations are at its best right now. President Xi Jinping's & PM Modi's informal summit marked a historical milestone in the bilateral relations between the two countries: Chinese Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui at China-India Youth dialogue in Delhi, earlier today pic.twitter.com/oiEzNHL2p0 — ANI (@ANI) November 16, 2018 × The Chinese Ambassador to India further stressed on improving the relations between the two countries by encouraging youth exchange. "We encourage more Indian students to study in China and more Chinese students to study in India. There're more than 20 Chinese universities teaching Hindi. We'll encourage more Indian universities and educational institutions to teach Chinese, " Zhaohui said. "Three things are most fashionable among the Chinese youth in urban areas of China- watching Bollywood movies, practicing Yoga and tasting the Darjeeling tea," Zhaohui added. He also suggested ways through which exchanges between youths of the two countries could be strengthened. "The interaction with CYL should be more often and should be regularised. Second, we need to expand the scope of exchanges among the youth and arrange some dialogues with the big cities," he said. "Third we shall encourage more exchange programs in sports and movie industry. Fourth, we shall encourage more Indian engineers to work in China and more Indian students to work in Chinese enterprises in India, he added. "Fifth, we shall encourage more Indian students to study in China and more Chinese students to study in India. Sixth, we will work with the Indian government to map out a plan for youth exchanges," Luo said. The dialogue was organised jointly by the Chinese embassy and the Confederation of Young Leaders (CYL). (With inputs from agencies)

Need to take concrete measures to enhance youth exchanges between India and China: Chinese envoy

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